With the cost of energy increasing every year, more people are searching for ways to generate their Own energy. With solar power it is possible to generate your own energy and reduce your dependence on fossil fuels such as coal and oil.
How much solar energy is available in your area? You can find this out using this web tool from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). Just enter your zip code and select how many solar-power-generating wind turbines you would like to see in operation in the United States. (The U.S. currently has around 160,000 wind turbines in operation, which are all counted in this SEIA tool).
Based on your selection, you will then be provided with the estimated amount of megawatts (MW) of solar energy that is available in your area. A MW is equivalent to 1,000 megawatts – enough energy to power over 1 million homes for an entire year. (One gigawatt (GW) is equal to 1,000 megawatts or 1 million kilowatts.)
Get A Life
If you are powering your home with solar energy and are following energy-efficient measures such as installing energy-efficient appliances and purchasing green power, then your impact on the environment will be minimal. But if you are living a life that is primarily fueled by fossil fuels, then you are heavily contributing to the destruction of our planet.
You should be very proud of yourself for seeking alternative energy sources. While not everyone may agree with your choice, at least you are doing your part to fight climate change.
If you are interested in learning more about alternative energy sources and becoming more environmentally conscious, then check out these other resources from SEIA: